South-West of Melbourne only a short one-hour drive from the city sits the scenic Bellarine Peninsula. For too long this area has been trapped in the shadow of The Mornington Peninsula, it’s cousin on the Eastern side of Port Phillip Bay.
People are now starting to cotton on to this up and coming area with its’ stunning views, picturesque wineries, breweries, cideries, restaurants and attractions offering an amazing experience for even the most discerning visitor at a cheaper price tag than what is available in similar areas around Melbourne.
We thought we’d put together a bit of a snippet of just some of the amazing attractions and places that you can visit on that day trip, weekend away or extended stay.
Geelong Foreshore
The waterfront is the perfect stop for a morning stroll in Victoria’s Second largest city just 40 minutes from Melbourne. The main attraction here are the famous bollards scattered along the foreshore from Ripple side park through to the Botanic Gardens and Limeburner’s point. The bollards themselves are painted works of art by artist Jan Mitchell who was commissioned to paint old timbers from a demolished city pier in the 1980’s. Don’t forget to bring your camera for a photo.
Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Situated on the outskirts of Geelong this award winning Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a great place to visit and to learn about Australia’s original inhabitants. There’s an art gallery, café and a garden with emus and wallabies that you’re able to hand feed as well!
Bluff Lookout, Barwon Heads
Spectacular views and the chance to witness the power of the southern coastline’s ocean are on offer at this lookout in the small town of Barwon Heads. From here the beach and ocean seem to go on forever!
Pt Lonsdale Lighthouse
Spectacular views and the chance to witness the power of the southern coastline’s ocean are on offer at this lookout in the small town of Barwon Heads. From here the beach and ocean seem to go on forever!
Jack Rabbit Winery
Only a short drive from Geelong and on the north side of the Bellarine, Jack Rabbit arguably has the best views of any winery in Victoria. On a clear day the water glistens off the bay and views of Melbourne skyscrapers can be “drunk in” at the same time as you enjoy a drink of your favourite Jack Rabbit wine.
Scotchmans hill
The Cellar door here has a very homely feel as the expert staff guide you through a tasting of their different vintages. Scotchman’s began from humble beginnings in 1986 and thanks to being located on top of the extinct volcano of Mt Bellarine the soil here lends intense and interesting characteristics to the wines.
Come for the wine, stay for the food and leave with a couple of bottles of your favourites!
Terindah Estate
The name means “Most Beautiful” in Indonesian and the views coupled with the delicious wines made here are the perfect match for such a name! Sample a selection of the assortment of wines available and tuck into some delicious food in “the shed” restaurant or on the deck.
Tuckerberry Hill
Those that love getting outdoors and enjoy something sweet will jump at the opportunity to visit this self-picking farm experience. Strawberries and blueberries are able to be picked fresh and there’s even a café and local produce store in the main building to checkout afterwards!
Queenscliff Brewhouse
Part of the Prickly Moses Brewery family, the Queenscliff brewhouse is only a 2 minute drive from the Ferry terminal to the other side of the bay. There’s the main bar where you can enjoy a large range of bottled and draught beers, some of which are brewed on site.
There’s a beer garden, a whiskey bar and also a tasting room for sampling beer, cider, whiskey, wine and fresh produce. Bring your appetite!
Flying Brick Cider
This company has burst onto the scene only recently with their range of ciders really pleasing the palates of those lucky enough to enjoy a taste! Flying Brick make their ciders from crisp freshly picked fruit and have them available on draught and in the bottle which can be sampled at the bar before settling in for some food and a few more samples inside or outside in the sun.
Queenscliff to Sorrento Ferry
The journey across Port Phillip bay is nothing short of spectacular thanks to the team at Searoad ferries. Travel is possible on foot, in car or bus and services operate every hour on the hour 7am till 7pm. There’s a café on board and options such as high tea and the captain’s lunch (advance booking required) add that extra something special to your crossing. Keep an eye out for special events on school holidays as well!
Want to explore the Bellarine?